General Information
Status in Florida: Florida Friendly (Non-native, widely cultivated)
Native Habitat: Native to Japan, found in forests and mountainous regions
Native States: Non-native to the U.S.; originates from Japan
Growing Zones: 6-9
Size at Maturity: 6-10 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
Phenology: Evergreen
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Growth Habit: Columnar, upright, dense
Bloom Season: Spring (inconspicuous flowers)
Bloom Color: Greenish-white (not showy)
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Loam, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average to moist, prefers well-drained soil
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Hedges, privacy screens, vertical accents, container planting, formal gardens
Maintenance Tips: Prune lightly to maintain shape; protect from heavy snow or ice accumulation to prevent limb breakage
Considerations: Can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils; susceptible to spider mites in hot, dry conditions
Hurricane Wind Resistant: No (can be damaged by strong winds)
Erosion Control: No
Nitrogen Fixing: No
 
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Caution (mild toxicity if ingested)
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate resistance
Historical Medicinal Uses: None known
Florida Native Companion Plant: Not a native species, but pairs well with Dwarf Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Nana’), Coontie (Zamia integrifolia), and native ferns for contrast
Wildlife Benefit: Provides shelter for birds but has limited pollinator benefits
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
Propagation: Cuttings